Suspension: SAIT Hockey - Hyland |
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Commissioner's Rulings
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2010-11 SeasonFacts: On November 5, 2010 SAIT’s Ryan Hyland (#12) received a major and a game misconduct for checking Augustana’s Adam Tresoor in the head. According to the referee, Mr. Hyland’s hit was directed to Mr. Tresoor’s head. Following the hit, Mr. Tresoor left the game and did not return. The hit took place against the glass in front of the penalty box. The players had been reasonably close to each other prior to the hit. SAIT’s position on the hit is that Mr. Tresoor crouched just before impact, which resulted in the hit being to the head. I have spoken with the referee and he confirmed that Mr. Tresoor did duck somewhat prior to impact. I have reviewed video footage of the incident. Unfortunately, the hit takes place outside the view of the camera. I have been advised by Augustana that Mr. Tresoor sustained a concussion from the hit and will be out for a minimum of 2-3 weeks. RULING: Rule 8.4.4 applies to this situation. It reads as follows: A major and game misconduct penalty called as the result of an injury shall be subject to review by the Commissioner. The offending player may be subject to a suspension to be determined by the Commissioner… It is unfortunate that Mr. Tresoor suffered a concussion and will miss a significant amount of time. However, injury alone is not the only factor in these cases. The conduct of the offending player must be assessed within the context of the play. In this case, although it appears that Mr. Tresoor ducking may have affected the point of impact, it is still Mr. Hyland’s responsibility to ensure that he does not target another player’s head. Under the circumstances, it is my opinion that a further one (1) game suspension is warranted. The suspension shall be served as follows: November 6 vs. Augustana (served) Sincerely, Bill Hendsbee |